If you’re looking to shake up your weekly meal routine, steak and cheese empanadas are the perfect choice. These savory, cheesy pastries are filled with tender steak and melty cheese, making them an irresistible treat. Follow this recipe, and you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create these crispy, golden delights at home.
Ingredients for Steak and Cheese Empanadas
For the Filling:
- 1 lb of shaved steak
- 1 tablespoon of avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup of sour cream
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1 clove of roasted garlic
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Empanadas:
- Store-bought or homemade empanada dough
- Oil for frying (vegetable or avocado oil)
How to Make Steak and Cheese Empanadas
1. Prepare the Steak Filling
Start by heating avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shaved steak and cook until it’s browned. Season the steak with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to enhance its flavor.
Once the steak is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same pan, add diced onions and bell peppers, and sauté until softened and caramelized. These vegetables add a depth of flavor and a slight sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory steak.
After the onions and peppers are cooked, mix them with the steak. Let the mixture cool while you prepare the other components.
2. Make the Zesty Dipping Sauce
While the steak mixture cools, it’s time to whip up a delicious dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, lime zest, lime juice, chopped chipotle pepper, roasted garlic, honey, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until smooth. This sauce brings a tangy, spicy kick that complements the richness of the empanadas perfectly.
3. Assemble the Empanadas
Next, shred your cheese of choice—cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend works wonderfully. Lay out your empanada dough on a clean surface, and place a generous amount of shredded cheese in the center of each round.
Add a spoonful of the steak and vegetable mixture on top of the cheese. Be generous but careful not to overfill the empanadas to prevent them from bursting during cooking. Fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and crimp them with a fork to seal.
4. Fry the Empanadas to Perfection
Heat oil in a large pot or deep skillet to 350°F. Carefully place the empanadas in the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each empanada until it’s golden brown and crispy, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Once done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Pro Tip: You can also bake these in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes or air-fry them for a healthier alternative, but frying gives them that unbeatable crunch!
Why You’ll Love Steak and Cheese Empanadas
Empanadas are a versatile dish that you can enjoy as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. The combination of savory steak, creamy cheese, and crisp dough makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
- Bold Flavors: The steak is perfectly seasoned with Worcestershire sauce, while the onions and peppers add sweetness and texture.
- Cheesy Goodness: Who doesn’t love melted cheese? It’s the ultimate comfort food element that makes these empanadas irresistible.
- Crispy Texture: The fried dough gives you a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Customizable: Feel free to mix things up! Add jalapeños for some heat or swap the steak for chicken or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Serving Suggestions
These steak and cheese empanadas pair perfectly with the zesty dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor. You can also serve them with guacamole, salsa, or a side salad for a complete meal. Whether you’re enjoying them for lunch, dinner, or a game-day snack, these empanadas will be a hit.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store the empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
For long-term storage, you can freeze the uncooked empanadas. Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer—no need to thaw!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make empanadas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the empanadas ahead of time. Store them in the fridge or freeze them if you’re making them more than a day in advance. Fry or bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of dough?
Absolutely. While empanada dough is traditional, you can also use puff pastry or pie dough for a flakier texture.
What other fillings can I use for empanadas?
The possibilities are endless! Swap the steak for chicken, pork, or even ground beef. You can also experiment with vegetarian fillings like mushrooms, spinach, or black beans.
Is frying the only option?
Frying gives empanadas their signature crispy exterior, but if you prefer a lighter version, baking or air frying works too.
Steak and cheese empanadas are the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty steak, melted cheese, and crispy dough. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, these empanadas are sure to become a staple in your household. Serve them with a zesty dipping sauce, and watch as they disappear from the plate.
Now it’s your turn to make this recipe happen! Try it out, and prepare to indulge in one of the tastiest, most satisfying empanadas you’ll ever eat.
